Nothing brings a family together better than riding bikes together. The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo realizes this and that is one of the reasons they hold “Wild Ride at the Zoo” each year. This year there will be two opportunities to participate as “Wild Ride” returns on Friday, May 9 and Friday, July 25, 2014 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

“Wild Ride” is an activity that happens after the Zoo closes to regular visitors allowing bicyclists to have the paths to themselves. Ride maps are provided pointing out various routes geared for beginner, intermediate and experience riders. As guests experience the Zoo by navigating the trails under their own “pedal power” they can cruise by many of the outdoor animal exhibits as well as visit with bike-related exhibitors who will be on hand at the Welcome Plaza.

Even if you do not own a bike, you can still participate. The Bike Rack will be on hand with rental bikes available for your use. Call (216) 771-7120 to reserve your ride and your bike will be waiting for you. Reservations are recommended due to the limited number of bikes available for rent.

Tickets for Wild Ride are $12 per person, with a $2 discount for Cleveland Zoological Society members. A signed release form will be required for each rider, and a helmet is strongly recommended. Advance sale tickets are available online at clevelandmetroparks.com/zoo along with printable release forms. Riders under the age of 18 must have a parent or legal guardian sign and deliver the waiver.Wild Ride at the Zoo is a rain or shine event.

Northeast Ohio's most-visited year-round attraction, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Admission is $12.25 per person, $8.25 for kids ages 2 to 11 and free for children younger than 2 and Zoo members. Parking is free. Located at 3900 Wildlife Way, the Zoo is easily accessible from Interstates 71, 90 and 480.

For more information, visit clevelandmetroparks.com/zoo or call (216) 661-6500.

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With over 30 years as a Scout Leader and 1000 plus miles of backpacking and canoeing Mark Horning brings tried and true methods of "Comfortable Backpacking" to the readers. Through his experiences you will be guided on what gear to buy, where to find it and how to use it properly as well as hints on saving time, money (and most important) weight. You may comment on his articles by contacting him at misterh777@sbcglobal.net.